Bullae-associated Lung Cancer: Two Case Reports and Literature Review

Abstract

Background and objective Most of lung cancers present with a parenchymal mass. Lung cancers that present as bullae under imaging are unusual. The aim of the current article is to raise awareness regarding bullae-associated lung cancer through two case reports and their corresponding review of literature. Methods The clinical, auxiliary examination data, and the diagnosis of two patients with bullae-associated lung cancer are presented and the relevant literature are reviewed. Results Most cases of bullae-associated lung cancer are male heavy smokers. Considering the incidence of pulmonary carcinoma associated with bullous disease is high, radiographic findings would aid in the early detection of a malignant lesion. Conclusion Bullous lung disease is a risk factor for lung cancer, and male, middle-age patients with bullae who smoke should be followed up by chest computed tomography and further examination. If the bullae may be diagnosed as lung cancer, an exploratory thoracotomy should be performed as early as possible.

Keywords

• Lung neoplasms
• Bullae
• Diagnosis